M363A: Piano Teaching 2A
Course Description
The word "pedagogy" originates from the Greek, paidagogos, which literally means “to lead a child” (pais = child and agein = to lead) By definition, pedagogy is the art or science of teaching, especially in the instruction of teaching methods. In teaching the class, I emphasize practical teaching experience in both private and group situations. In preparation for practicum teaching, I will discuss lecture topics which will include piano systems/methods, business practices and basic principles of music education.
I have divided the class into two onehour discussions. In addition students will observe and assist in the piano pedagogy lab Wednesday 4:30-5:30.
Prerequisites
Since it is difficult to teach anything which one has not personally mastered, class members must have advanced standing as a pianist. I strongly encourage concurrent enrollment in applied piano.
Course Objectives
The prospective piano teacher will acquire skills and experiences which will enhance teaching effectiveness. While reading about teaching can be useful, there is no substitute for actual teaching experience. The best way to succeed in this class is to:
1. Attend all class periods.
2. Complete all assignments, and readings according to schedule.
3. Teach a weekly private lesson to a community student.
4. Assist and observe in the Piano Pedagogy Community Lab.
Grading
The final grade is based on a percentage with the following division:
Attendance 20%
Assignments 20%
Lesson Plans/
Community Lab 40%
Reading 20%
Attendance: Since the intent of the course is to develop teaching skills and prepare the student for a practical experience in teaching, I require attendance to all classes. Our classroom is a dedicated space for learning as a Zion community. Punctuality shows respect to others and a willingness to invite and be taught by the Spirit. Mark your attendance weekly (see "Attendance" in the left-hand sidebar). For each day of attendance you have the possibility of earning 3 points. Grade yourself according the rubric below:
1 point = attended class (punctually)
2 points = attended class; read and completed assignments
3 points = attended class; read and completed assignments; prepared to share and teach
Assignments: 20% of your grade is from assignments. Each assignment has a practical application. Grading of assignments is based on a ten-point system. No late assignments accepted. Assignments are due at the beginning of class.
Students create and evaluate their own assignments. You may choose to respond to an assignment according to the criteria of any of the letter grades of the grading rubric (“A,””B,” etc.). At the end of the assignment, identify the grading standard used for your response.
CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION OF ASSIGNMENTS
Letter/Points
F (2) Unprepared. Lacking.
D (4) Meets minimum requirements only. General overall need for more careful attention. Needs significant improvement.
C (6)) Fair, satisfactory, but with obvious need for improvement [The average score will be in this area.]
B (8) Good with minor errors and inaccuracies. Some inadequacies. Generally effective.
A (10) Outstanding preparation, attention to detail, highly effective. Superior results.
Lesson Plans: The teaching experience is the most essential aspect of the class. You learn to teach by teaching. You will have a weekly lesson plan for your private lesson. In addition you will have observing and leadership responsibilities in the community lab.
Reading: Complete the reading as assigned. Be prepared to teach and share what you learn in class discussion. Preparation before class by completing reading assignments demonstrates a willingness to be taught and to be edified by one another.
Miscellany
Students will be required to observe the BYUI Dress and Grooming Code. The schedule and procedures in this course are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances.
In compliance with applicable disability law, qualified students with a disability may be entitled to "reasonable accommodation." It is the student's responsibility to disclose to the teacher any such special need before the end of the first week of class.